Antiques & Collectables and Much More (14% Buyers Commissions)
Lot 157:
Description
An Imperial German First World War period trench knife bayonet, known as a Grabendolch-Bajonett, manufactured by Deutsche Maschinenfabrik AG (DEMAG) of Duisburg. The steel clip-point blade features a single fuller on both sides and is stamped at the ricasso with the circular maker’s mark for DEMAG Duisburg. The hilt is constructed with a steel crossguard incorporating a muzzle ring, a steel pommel with a functional T-O attachment slot and press-stud, and two-piece wooden grip scales secured by two slotted screws. The wooden scales have been modified with period hand-carved cross-hatched texturing, a form of trench art intended to enhance grip. The item is accompanied by its black leather scabbard, which features a steel locket and chape, and an integral brown leather frog for belt carry. A faint Imperial German inspection stamp (Fraktur) is located on the spine of the blade near the crossguard.
Blade length: 15 cm
Overall knife length: 28 cm
Overall length in scabbard: 29.5 cm.
Condition report:
The blade is in fair condition, displaying a consistent grey and brown patina with areas of light surface oxidation and minor pitting. The cutting edge shows signs of period sharpening and use. The metal components of the hilt exhibit a dark patina with light surface rust. The wooden grip scales remain securely attached; the hand-carving is well-worn but distinct, showing typical handling marks and small indentations. The bayonet lug mechanism is functional. The leather scabbard body remains intact but shows surface crazing and wear. The metal locket and chape are secure with a dark patina matching the hilt. The brown leather frog shows significant wear, surface cracking, and some loss of finish, though the stitching remains largely sound.
Share this lot:
